starter Cody Ponce, and relievers Chase Lee and Tyler Rogers.
 |
| Cody Ponce |
 |
| Tyler Rogers |
Having said all that, the Jays haven't added a dependable closer to their roster. Jeff Hoffman still has the job, but he has not proven himself. He allows too many home runs. In his first season as a closer, he allowed 14 home runs in the 9th inning or later, the highest total of his career as a relief pitcher. He broke a franchise record. It's difficult to feel confident when Hoffman's on the mound. Yimy Garcy is returning from injury, but there is no guarantee that he will be able to do the job. Perhaps Tyler Rogers?
In addition to those pitchers, the jays inked a deal with Japanese infielder Kazuma Okamoto. Okamoto was one of the top international free agents. He's played for the Yomiuri Giants in Japan for the last decade. We'll see how he adjusts to North American Major League Baseball. He should be a good one.
 |
| Kazuma Okamoto |
There have been some significant offseason moves by the Blue Jays. However, the team's reluctance to fill the remaining holes in their lineup is frustrating. They need another bat badly. They did not succeed in signing Kyle Tucker or Cody Bellinger. That's not surprising because they never seem to be able to lure free agents from the Dodgers, Yankees and Mets. It seems that the Jays have been used as pawns so that the Dodgers, Yankees and Mets will offer more money to the most coveted free agents.
The Blue Jays should have concentrated on signing Bo Bichette sooner. They may have been able to swing a deal with him. They still have time to trade for a hitter. Anthony Santander was supposed to provide some hitting last season, but he had a a miserable year. Santander may turn it around in 2026. It would be great if he does, but there is no guarantee. The Jays need some insurance in case Santander struggles again.
I hope that the Jays make one or two more significant moves during this offseason. They need to if they are going for broke in 2026.
- Joanne
No comments:
Post a Comment